Benzoyl peroxide is a well-known anti-acne ingredient. For mild to moderate acne, this component is available in a variety of concentrations in over-the-counter gels, cleansers, and spot treatments.
While benzoyl peroxide effectively removes pore-clogging bacteria and dead skin cells, it also has limitations.
Let's cover the pros and cons and when to talk to a dermatologist (skincare specialist) if over-the-counter products aren't doing the job.
Because of its capacity to significantly diminish Propionibacterium acnes and inflammatory acne lesions while also substantially reducing noninflammatory acne lesions, benzoyl peroxide has been an essential component of topical therapy for acne for more than fifty years.
Benzoyl peroxide is immediately harmful to P. acnes and other bacteria, unlike antibiotics, which cause changes in bacterial structure, particular enzymes, and nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins.
As a result, no link shows between benzoyl peroxide and the development of P. acnes resistance.
Furthermore, studies using BPO leave-on formulations show a reduction in the establishment of antibiotic-resistant P. acnes strains in individuals receiving topical medicines like erythromycin or clindamycin at the same time.
Inflammatory acne, which is marked by red lumps with pus - pustules, papules, cysts, and nodules – rather than whiteheads and blackheads, responds well to benzoyl peroxide.
The most severe kind of acne, cystic acne, is the hardest to treat. It appears as firm lumps beneath the skin's surface. While these pimples may have pus deep within them, identifying any prominent "heads" is problematic.
P. acne bacteria are one of the causes of cystic acne, which benzoyl peroxide and prescription drugs may help treat. Consult a physician for the best treatment choices if you have this form of acne. Benzoyl peroxide is in a variety of acne treatments.
It's critical to pick the right one for your skincare issue as well as your personal preference. For example, you could use a body wash rather than a face wash. Alternatively, you might go with a gel.
Another important issue is to choose the right concentration. The concentration you use is determined by the type of skin you have.
Some people can tolerate benzoyl peroxide products with a high concentration (up to 10%) on their skin. Others may require more minor scales.
The concentration to use is also determined by where the benzoyl peroxide is applied. Because the face is so delicate, many people choose a lesser dose (about 4%), but the chest and back are more durable and can handle a more heavy concentration.
Acne treatment products that contain benzoyl peroxide include:
Acne creams and lotions are typically used once or twice a day to the whole surface of the skin as a therapy and prevention tactic.
To prevent acne and cure existing blemishes, use face cleansers and foams once or twice a day.
Acne body washes and soaps are perfect if you regularly get outbreaks on your chest, back, or other parts of your body.
Gels come in higher-concentration spot treatments that are usually given solely to the afflicted area.